As part of AIA NJ’s ongoing efforts to remove barriers to licensure and support the next generation of architects, New Jersey Legislature has removed the minimum experience-hour and three-year work requirement for exam eligibility. This progressive change aligns New Jersey with NCARB’s national standards, modernizing the path to licensure and making it more accessible, efficient, and equitable for future architects.
Under the new policy, candidates may begin taking the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) while completing their Architectural Experience Program (AXP) hours. This means aspiring architects no longer need to wait until accumulating 5,600 experience hours and 3 years in practice before beginning the exam process.
This shift offers multiple benefits to emerging and licensed professionals and academic institutions alike:
- Supports IPAL (Integrated Path to Architectural Licensure) program creation and adoption at New Jersey architecture schools.
- Accelerates the path to licensure, enabling candidates to complete education, experience, and examination requirements concurrently and become registered architects sooner and enter the profession fully prepared to contribute to their communities.
- Expands reciprocity opportunities, aligning with licensure processes across the country, making it easier for architects to gain reciprocity and practice across state lines.
By aligning with NCARB’s national standards, New Jersey demonstrates its commitment to removing unnecessary barriers, fostering professional growth, and strengthening the architectural pipeline. Ultimately, this reform reflects a forward-thinking approach that values both rigor and accessibility—empowering emerging professionals to advance their careers with greater freedom, confidence, and opportunity. As this change takes effect, AIA New Jersey will continue to provide resources, mentorship, and advocacy to help candidates navigate the path to licensure with confidence.
Abigail Benjamin, AIA, CNU-A, NCARB
AIA NJ Licensing Advisor, 2018-2026
AIA NJ Young Architect Representative, 2023-2026
AIA NJ Treasurer, 2021-2022
a.bricker2@gmail.com
